Center officials aren't sure if the wounds -- which resemble a large, raw sore -- are caused by a viral infection or contagious disease.

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"Anytime we see something new we're concerned because of medication and treatment, how we're going to resolve the problem or if it's something we don't have to worry about," Schoelkopf said.

Test samples have been taken from the seals and the surrounding waters to try and determine the threat, but results aren't expected for several days.

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The four pups, who range in age from six to eight months old, are recovering at the center in Brigantine, N.J. after beaching themselves in Ocean and Atlantic Counties. They're expected to be okay, Schoelkopf said, noting that the center has a 90-percent recovery rate.